HEARTFELT tributes have poured in for a Bargain Hunt star who died just hours after filming for the BBC show.
Stuart Withers appeared in an episode of the hit antiques programme broadcast on Friday, March 21.
Stuart appeared alongside presenter Charlie Ross and experts Tim Weeks and Philip Serrell in the recent episode – filmed in Shepton Mallet.
However, the BBC show later confirmed that Stuart had sadly died shortly after the recording.
A tweet on the programme’s official X account read: “Following the filming of today’s episode in Shepton Mallet, antiques seller Stuart Withers (pictured left with Tim Weeks) very sadly passed away.
“We send our sincerest sympathies and condolences to Mr Withers’ family and friends.”
No details have been provided about the circumstances or timing of Stuart’s death.
Devastated fans were left stunned after hearing the tragic news.
Many shared their condolences online, with one writing: “So very sad just watched this episode now, offering my condolences.”
Another said: “So sad, RIP.”
Others responded with emotive emojis like hearts and angel wings.
Stuart appeared in Friday’s episode to assist the Blue Team as they looked to spend their last £75 on a hidden gem.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”Bargain Hunt viewers demand ‘sacking’ as BBC contestants ‘stitched up’ by major off-screen blunder” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6351408553112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]During the Bargain Hunt episode, Stuart drew the attention of contestants Weeks and his team as they considered the potential resell value of two Royal Doulton ceramic pieces.
As the team weighed up their options, Stuart pointed out: “The only two that I think you’d have a chance with are the small fox or that hare.
“I could sell them for about £40 each.”
Weeks then attempted to strike a deal, asking Stuart if he’d sell both pieces for the Blue Team’s £75 budget.
Stuart eventually agreed to sell the pieces to the team, though the two contestants didn’t manage to make the profit they had hoped for.
The items only fetched £45 at auction, leaving the Blue Team with a £30 loss.
First airing on BBC One in 2000, Bargain Hunt sees two pairs of contestants tasked with buying antiques from a shop or fair and then try to make a profit at auction.
But the tragic news of Stuart’s death is not the first time a contestant has died following filming.
In 2023, Bargain Hunt announced that one of its guests had passed away before the show aired.
“Lovely and kind” guest David featured on the show with his daughter Vicky.
David took part in the show alongside his daughter Vicky, with experts Izzie Balmer and Nick Hall dedicating heartfelt tributes to him posthumously.
BBC Bargain Hunt confirmed at the time: “Since today’s episode of Bargain Hunt was filmed, David has sadly passed away.
“We send our sincere condolences to his daughter and team mate Vicky, his wife Joyce and all his family and friends.”
Show expert Izzie paid tribute, branding David a “kind, caring and friendly person with a great sense of humour”.